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Rigging Gaffer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY · On-site

$50 - $75/hr

... rigging solutions, and technical feasibility during pre‑production. They will act as a technical authority on set, ensuring safe, efficient, and industry‑leading lighting practices, and taking ...

Rigging Gaffer information

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$14

$26

$36

How much do rigging gaffer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for rigging gaffer in the United States is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Rigging Gaffer vs Rigging Grip?

AspectRigging GafferRigging Grip
CredentialsExperience in electrical and lighting setup, relevant certificationsExperience in rigging, equipment setup, and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-set lighting and electrical setups, working closely with lighting and electrical teamsOn-set rigging, supporting camera and lighting equipment, working with rigging teams
Industry UsageFilm, television, commercial productions involving lightingFilm, television, live events requiring rigging and support

While both roles are essential on set, the Rigging Gaffer primarily focuses on lighting and electrical aspects, whereas the Rigging Grip handles rigging and support for equipment. Understanding these differences helps clarify their distinct responsibilities in production.

How much does a rigging gaffer make?

A rigging gaffer typically earns between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of the production. They are responsible for overseeing lighting setup and working closely with the cinematography team, often requiring specialized knowledge of lighting equipment and safety protocols.

What does a rigging gaffer do?

A rigging gaffer is responsible for overseeing the lighting setup and electrical rigging on a film or television set. They coordinate with the lighting crew to ensure proper placement, safety, and operation of lighting equipment, often working with tools like dimmers and rigging gear. The role requires knowledge of electrical safety, lighting techniques, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

What cities are hiring for Rigging Gaffer jobs?

Cities with the most Rigging Gaffer job openings:

Infographic showing various Rigging Gaffer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.

Lighting gaffer and film studio manager

Linney Group Ltd.

NY • On-site

$50 - $75/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job details

Job reference LINREF001100 Date posted 17/03/2026 Application closing date 04/09/2026 Location Mansfield Package Blank Contractual hours 37.5 Basis Full time Job category/type Film & Animation Attachments Blank

Lighting gaffer and film studio manager

Linney is a world‑class, multichannel marketing services business. We are looking to appoint a lighting gaffer and film studio manager to collaborate closely with directors, photographers, producers, and creative teams to prepare lighting setups for productions, with a strong focus on corporate and advertising.

The successful candidate will deliver consistent, high‑quality lighting across a wide range of shooting scenarios, from studio‑based productions to location work.

They will need to be able to proactively introduce relevant innovations to help elevate ways of working, including helping to implement improvements to lighting setups, kit usage, storage, and prep processes, and consulting on lighting approaches, power requirements, rigging solutions, and technical feasibility during pre‑production.

They will act as a technical authority on set, ensuring safe, efficient, and industry‑leading lighting practices, and taking ownership of production equipment, ensuring all kit is meticulously maintained, prepared, tested, and stored, to support the ongoing development of studio standards and best practices.

Overseeing the organisation and day‑to‑day running of the studio and kit rooms, they will implement and refine systems for inventory tracking and maintenance of equipment, and liaise with suppliers and rental houses when required.

Essential Skills
  • A strong understanding of lighting for photography as well as motion
  • Ability to ensure seamless crossover between disciplines
  • Up‑to‑date knowledge of emerging lighting techniques, technologies, and equipment

Please get in touch if you have any questions about our diversity and inclusion policies, or about accessibility or any accommodations needed during your application process.

We work hard to provide an inspiring environment with opportunity to progress your career. Look at the Our values section on the Linney website to find out more about the Linney culture.

For more information on how we handle your personal data and your rights in relation to it please read our privacy policy atlinney.com/privacy.

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